19th August 2023, Huye City, Rwanda
The 20th edition of the Federation of East African Secondary Schools Sports Association (FEASSSA) Games officially commenced in Huye City, Rwanda (Southern Province) on Saturday, August 19, 2023.
The grand inauguration ceremony unfolded at the Huye International Stadium, graced by Rwanda’s Minister of Education, Dr. Valentine Uwamariya, who took center stage as the esteemed chief guest. She expressed her sentiment, “I wish you a pleasant stay and great memories. The Government of Rwanda acknowledges sports in fostering critical thinking.”
Representatives from Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and the host nation, alongside their accompanying officials, paraded exuberantly, led by the spirited melodies of the Rwanda Army Brass band. The vibrant atmosphere was further enriched by the enchanting performances of traditional Rwandan folk songs and dances, presented by the talented students of St. Bernadette School.
Justus Mugisha, the head of FEASSSA, extended a gracious welcome to the chief guest, delegation leaders, participants, and well-wishers. Mugisha conveyed heartfelt gratitude to the Republic of Rwanda for promptly stepping up to host the 2023 FEASSSA Games when Burundi withdrew from the role. He noted, “I want to thank the Republic of Rwanda for accepting to host the 2023 FEASSSA Games even on a short notice.”
Mugisha’s description of the opening ceremony as “magnanimous” resonated with the palpable energy of the occasion. He then introduced the leaders of delegations from the various participating countries, among them Sam Kuloba, Uganda’s Commissioner responsible for secondary education. Kuloba shared a special message from Hon. Janet Kataha Museveni, Uganda’s Minister of Education and Sports, emphasizing the profound spirit of East African integration and the unwavering commitment of Uganda’s representatives to pursue excellence and victory in the games. He vowed, “Uganda has come to compete and take back the trophies.”
Dr. Valentine Uwamariya, Rwanda’s Minister of Education, showered FEASSSA with accolades, underscoring the indispensable role of sports in the process of nation-building. She eloquently underscored the manifold benefits of sports, ranging from discipline and mental wellness to cultural exchange, while also placing great emphasis on the virtues of fair play, respect for opponents, and adherence to rules. She added, “My appeal to all the participants is to respect the principles of fair-play, respect opponents and the rules.”
The Mayor of Huye city extended a warm welcome to the esteemed guests, expressing profound gratitude for the privilege of hosting such a momentous event. He voiced heartfelt thanks to the Government of Rwanda, FEASSSA management, schools, and the entire cadre of organizers who made the event possible. He stated, “This is a memorable event to the city of Huye to host games of such this magnitude.”
The President of the Rwanda School Sports Federation envisioned a tournament characterized by spirited competition and underpinned by the core values of the East African community—professionalism, accountability, transparency, unity, and diversity. He expressed, “Rwanda School Sports Federation (RSSF) will continue to collaborate with all stakeholders to have a successful tournament.”
The curtain-raising match, orchestrated by the Rwanda Special Olympics group, witnessed Gasabo clinching a slim 1-0 victory over Kichuikuro, a prelude to the ensuing medal presentation ceremony.
The official inaugural match featured Rwanda’s Ecose Musambira triumphing over Kenya’s Dagoretti High School with a convincing 2-0 score.
The upcoming days promise an array of captivating matches, as the games are set to unfold throughout the week. A diverse spectrum of sports, ranging from swimming, athletics, and netball to hockey, handball, tennis, table tennis, rugby 7’s, rugby 15’s, basketball 5X5 and 3×3, badminton, and goalball, constitutes the event’s rich tapestry. Uganda is actively participating in all of these disciplines.